OBITUARY

Thomas Candler Gilliland

January 20, 1948 – March 31, 2013

Mr. Gilliland was born January 22, 1948, in Atlanta, to the late Sarah Candler Gilliland and Jason Brown Gilliland. He graduated from the Westminster Schools in 1966, and thereafter attended the University of Georgia, where he graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in History in 1970. At UGA, he served as President of the Honors Program student body, was a member of Chi Phi fraternity, was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and was a Rhodes Scholarship nominee. Mr. Gilliland then attended Emory University School of Law, earning his J.D. in 1973. As a lawyer, he would continue a family tradition of service to Georgia extending back to the colonial era.

Mr. Gilliland practiced law in Atlanta for twenty years. Consistent with the streak of independence that would typify his career, he left a major firm to co-found Howard & Gilliland in 1976. He later became a Partner at Hurt, Richardson, Garner, Todd and Cadenhead. In 1980 he co-authored Fifth Circuit Truth-in-Lending: Consumer Loans Secured by Real Property, published by Harrison Publishing Company. He married Mary Candace Wansley in 1982 and spent the remainder of his life with her at his side.

Mr. Gilliland was closely involved in public affairs throughout his life, serving as Chief of Staff to Lt. Gov. Pierre Howard and as a close advisor to countless officials. He helped to shape and enact important legislation, including Georgia’s first ethics bill and a measure to establish much-needed medical clinics in remote sections of rural Georgia. As the HOPE Scholarship neared passage, he helped shape the language of amendments to Georgia’s constitution to ensure that state legislators could never raid lottery funds. He was a thought leader on legislative issues pertaining to the banking industry, from the Sarbaines-Oxley Act to Dodd-Frank.

Throughout his life, Mr. Gilliland was drawn to the north Georgia mountains, home of his grandfather, Georgia Supreme Court Justice Thomas S. Candler, who was among Mr. Gilliland’s strongest role models. In 1986 he assembled a group of investors to launch People’s Bank in Blue Ridge. He repeated the pattern at other locations, eventually merging the group of banks with Union County Bank, creating United Community Banks. He and his family moved to the mountains full-time in 1994, where Mr. Gilliland served as President of the bank in Blue Ridge, Chairman of the Board of United Community Bank North Georgia, and eventually as Executive Vice President, Secretary, and General Counsel of United Community Banks, Inc. In that capacity, Mr. Gilliland helped steward the bank’s growth as it expanded to become the third-largest bank holding company in Georgia. He retired in 2008.

Mr. Gilliland served his community throughout his life, including tenures on the boards of the Honors Program of the University of Georgia, Atlanta Hospital’s Hospitality House, the Georgia Affordable Housing Corporation, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Truett-McConnell College, Young Harris College, and numerous civic associations in Fannin County. He served as the President of the Callanwolde Foundation in Atlanta, as Chairman of Fannin County’s Civic Center Committee, and as Chairman of Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle’s Transition Committee. He was appointed by Gov. Roy Barnes to serve on Georgia’s Y2K Task Force as well as the Stone Mountain Authority. Gov. Sonny Perdue reappointed Mr. Gilliland as Chairman of the Stone Mountain Authority in 2005. In 2007, President George W. Bush appointed Mr. Gilliland to a four-year term on the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The U.S. Senate confirmed his appointment in 2008, making him the first Georgian ever to serve on the TVA’s board.

Among his many pastimes, Mr. Gilliland was a lifelong outdoorsman. Many of his most cherished memories were of adventures in the field, especially those with his two sons. He achieved a lifelong goal by earning his pilot’s license in 2005, and for years would rise early to fly around his home in the mountains. He was blessed with a deeply loving wife with whom he raised two sons and countless dogs, and built a great life. He was a member of the Gridiron Secret Society, the Capital City Club in Atlanta, and the Athens Country Club.

Mr. Gilliland’s life was shorter than most, but he filled his years with a richness of life few are privileged to claim. He was an uncommon man, with energies too abundant to confine to any one sphere. For his charisma, wit, and fun-loving nature he accumulated friends wherever he went; for his faithfulness, he kept them. He was as comfortable appearing before the U.S. Senate as he was walking into a country store in the mountains. His intellectual curiosity and profound memory struck all who had the privilege of knowing him—he was equally at ease discussing great literature, politics, or tractors, whether around a campfire or a dinner table. His friends were as diverse as his interests: he befriended artists, poets, farmers and ranchers just as readily as senators and CEOs. He gave more to his friends and loved ones than he asked or expected of them, and for more than a few men he was like a second father. He will be remembered for his great intellect, his quick wit, for tirelessly giving more of himself than he received, for quietly helping anyone in need, for rising early and taking risks, for his tolerance and compassion, and most of all for being a devoted and loving husband, father, and friend.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Candy, his two sons, Thomas Candler Gilliland Jr. and Jason Wansley Gilliland, his aunt Blanche Candler and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 4, at Athens First United Methodist Church with Rev. Chuck Hodges and Rev Martha Aenchbacher officiating, followed by a reception at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asked that contributions be made to the Athens First United Methodist Church, 327 North Lumpkin St., Athens, Ga. 30601, or to The University of Georgia Honors Program, c/o UGA Foundation, Milledge Centre, Suite 100, 394 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30602.

Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfunerlahome.com

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.

REMEMBERING

Thomas Candler Gilliland

Candy, We were shocked and saddened by Tom's passing. Even though we have not seen each other a lot in recent years, you and Tom remain in our fondest memories. Please keep in touch. Carole and Mike Farrell. mfarrell@beaconmail.com

Heather Griffin Rhodes

May 15, 2013

My mom (Vicky Griffin) and I are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Tom was a wonderful friend to our family for so many years.

May 14, 2013

Candy, I was so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. These things are difficult to absorb. Anytime you would like to meet for lunch or coffee around Blue Ridge, just give me a call. We had lunch several years ago in Blue Ridge, as I had known Tom through my work at the Banking Dept. Fondly, Leslie Bechtel

Ken Shigley

April 16, 2013

A Renaissance Man gone too soon. I am so sorry for your loss.

George Butler

April 12, 2013

Candy,

After moving my practice to North Georgia a decade ago, my path first crossed with Tom's over the phone. I was instantly put at ease and felt an immediate kinship. What fun we had chasing rabbits and realizing that you were the Ms. Wansley I had taught at Emory. What a special team you two must have made! My deepest condolences.

Hank Fellows

April 6, 2013

Candy,

Pam and I were very sorry to learn of Tom's passing. He was a mentor to me and many other attorneys in Atlanta and north Georgia. Please know that you and your sons are in our prayers.

John Thomas

April 5, 2013

Deepest condolences to the family, but knowing that the friends he left behind are forever blessed for knowing him. John Thomas, Ellijay, a friend.

Rodney & Louise Nix

April 5, 2013

Candy and Boys,

I am so sorry for your lost. Tom was always a gentlemen and very kind to me.the service was lovely, please know you are in our prayers and thoughts

Pierre Howard

April 5, 2013

We shall never see his like again. "Good night Sweet Prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest." Pierre, Nancy, Caroline and Christopher Howard

April 4, 2013

I am sorry for your lose. John 11: 25,26 gives us hope that one day we would see our loved ones again.

Elizabeth Taylor

April 4, 2013

Candy, We are so sorry to hear about Tom's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mac and Elizabeth Taylor {Short's great niece}

April 4, 2013

My condolences to all the family. It was my honor and pleasure to have served withTom on the Stone Mountain Memorial Assn board.Neal Pope

April 4, 2013

With sincere condolences to the Gilliland family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.

Ken Payne

April 4, 2013

Candy, Tom & Jason, I had the pleasure of meeting Tom in 1998 when I ran for the 50th District Georgia State Senate seat & he was so kind with his advice & encouragement. Tom was an unusual man with so much intelligence, but so down to earth @ the same time. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. Ken Payne-Toccoa, GA

Jane and Morris Callihan

April 4, 2013

Candy, Tom & Jason, Tom was a wonderful friend and mentor. It was a privilege and a pleasure to work with him for all the years at UCBI. I am praying for your family at this sad time. Our deepest sympathy for your loss.

Russ Toal

April 4, 2013

Tom was an exceptional counselor. His insight, integrity, and commitment to community and public service were rare. He was a good man that will be missed by many. My sympathies to the family.

Loraine and Steve Green

April 4, 2013

Candy,Tom,and Jason, Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and please accept our heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time. My memory of TOM will be how his smile and great sense of humor made coming to UCB to work each day a pleasure. We will miss him. He was such a Special Man.

Joan, Jay, Jonathan, Matt and Kathryn Amatruda

April 4, 2013

Dear Candy, Tom and Jason,We were so deeply saddened to hear of your loss; please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May your love of one another, family, friends and wonderful shared memories bring you comfort during this time of unimaginable loss.With heartfelt sympathy,

chris jones

April 4, 2013

Candy, Nancy and Chris Jones extend our deepest sympathies to you and your children. Tom was an extraordinary man who touched many lives including our own. We will always remember the kindness and friendship he extended to our family. Our prayers are with you.

April 4, 2013

TomI met your Dad at Graduation and we discussed medicine and flying. I am saddened to hear of his passing. my sincere condolencesCraig Gerard MD PhD

April 4, 2013

I was so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. He will be missed by so many. I have and treasure the note he sent me after my father, Noel Galloway's, passing. Tom was a good friend to many. My sympathy is with all the family he left behind.Lynda Galloway Fitch, Morganton, GA.

Bruce and Sheila Chapman

April 3, 2013

Candy, We are so saddened to learn of Tom's passing. He was a good man and we will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys at this sad time. He loved you all so much-each one of you was a source of pride and joy for him! Every time we saw him, we got an update on your lives.

April 3, 2013

Candy, My Father Paul and I are so very saddened for your,Tom,and Jason's loss and are praying for you all....Tom was a true man's man and a dear friend.We will always cherish our friendship and the times we had together.John and Paul Holmes

Glenda Herndon

April 3, 2013

Candy, Tom, & Jason, There is so little anyone can say or do at this difficult time. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him. Tom was a unique person, so kind, compassionate, always smiling, and witty. I have so many wonderful memories of working with him at UCB, also of your family, watching the boys grow up. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love to all!

April 3, 2013

Candy, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your sons at this time.Mary Alice and Fred Lamm

April 3, 2013

I am so very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I worked with Tom for many years when he practiced law in Decatur. I had not talked to him in recent years but remember him fondly.Melanie Milledge

Blount Heating & Cooling

April 3, 2013

Candy, I'm so sorry for your loss of Your husband. Cherrish the moments and memories you had with him! So sorry!

April 3, 2013

Candy, Tom and Jason, I am so very sorry for your loss. Tom was a wonderful person and it was an honor and privledge to work with him at UCB for so many years. He will never be forgotten. May God bless and give you peace and comfort at this sad time. Debbie Eichorst (UCB-Blue Ridge).

Candy, We are very sorry to hear the news. Tom was a very unique and special friend.Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Terry and Laura Smith (Atlanta, GA)

April 3, 2013

Tom was a great leader with strong courage, conviction delivered through a gracious and thoughtful style. He did much for our communities . Bill Ide

Barbara Gailey

April 3, 2013

Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and prayers during this difficult time. I will always remember Tom's bright smile and great sense of humor. He brightened many days while working for him at HRGTC and with him at the State Capitol. He will be missed by so many people. May your wonderful family memories comfort you in your loss.

April 3, 2013

Candy, Tom and Jason, Out thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Tom will always have a special place in our hearts, many good memories of him.

Etheridge and Linda Ware (Mineral Bluff, GA)

Morgan, Mary, Christie and Thomas Arp

April 3, 2013

The more enriched a person makes our lives, the harder it is to let them go. For this reason, we know that saying goodbye to Tom will be the hardest sorrow to bear. We hope that the wonderful memories of Tom, as well as the love and friendship you have around you, will help support you through this difficult time. With our kids growing up together, you became like part of our family. We will all miss Tom.

Lois & Jerry Rich

April 3, 2013

Precious Candy, Tom and Jason, Please know that you are in our prayers and thoughts during this time and season of your lives. May the peace of God be present to comfort and hold you close to His heart.

Steve Pepper

April 3, 2013

Reading Tom's obituary reminded me of what a great, fun, intelligent, witty and down to earth guy he was. Though I had not seen him for many years, I have the fondest memories of him as my partner at HRTGC. Candy, please accept my condolences on Tom's much too early passing. May his memory always be a blessing for you and the boys.

Dinah and Lamar Paris

April 3, 2013

Candy,please accept out heartfelt sympathies for your loss....our thoughts are with you and the children during this difficult time.

Jim Wansley

April 3, 2013

Candy, We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and the boys

Lewis and Amy Massey

April 3, 2013

Tom was unique in so many ways. His spirit and kindness and wisdom will live on. Our thoughts and prayers are with Candy, Tom, Jr. and Jason.

Peter Banks

April 3, 2013

I am deeply saddened to learn of Tom's passing. Tom was a good friend and he and I worked together on many occasions as attorneys. He was always a consumate gentleman in all endeavors. He will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathy to the Gilliland family.

Eleanor Earley

April 3, 2013

Thoughts and prayers with the family at this difficult time. It was a pleasure to know Tom and work with him at Hurt, Richardson.

Bernstein Funeral Home

April 3, 2013

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Mike Kelly

April 3, 2013

Very sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.

Rick Katz

April 3, 2013

We have all lost a friend.

Charles & Margaret Tench

April 2, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with you > Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

April 2, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with you > Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time..

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